

The 23rd-ranked&nbsp;Fort Hays State women's basketball team has played Newman University 17 times since 1983, but the two teams will meet as MIAA rivals for the first time ever on Thursday inside Gross Memorial Coliseum. Opening tip between the Tigers (16-4, 7-4 MIAA) and Jets (9-13, 4-9 MIAA) is set for 5:30 p.m.

Promotions Game Sponsor: Cancer Council of Ellis County National Anthem: Stockton High School Student Section Theme: Pink night Mascot Night: Victor E. Tiger and his mascot buddies will be hanging out for pictures, high fives and fun Halftime performance: Styles Dance Wear pink with our women's basketball team in support of Breast Cancer Awareness FHSU Athletics Greek Week Radio: KJLS (103.3-FM) <a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KJLS">LISTEN LIVE</a>

Fort Hays State holds a 16-1 lead in the series with Newman, including a perfect 10-0 record at home. The Tigers are 7-1 against Newman under head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/coaches.aspx?rc=884">Tony Hobson</a>&nbsp;and 5-0 at home.

Trips to the foul line could be few and far between on Thursday, with the Tigers (13.2 fouls/game) and Jets (13.3 fouls/game) ranking sixth and seventh in DII, respectively, in fewest personal fouls per game.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5438">Taylor Rolfs</a>&nbsp;averages 10 points per game in two meetings with the Jets, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5434">Kacey Kennett</a>&nbsp;has recorded 9.5 points and 6.0 rebounds per night in two games against Newman.

Newman makes the short drive to Hays with a 9-13 record on the year, including a 4-9 mark in their first season as associate members of the MIAA. The Jets have not won a road game in two months (12/7 at Rogers State, losing their last four on the road. Newman is 3-7 away from Fugate Gymnasium this season. The Jets average 63.7 points per contest, ranking 10th in the MIAA, while allowing the sixth-fewest points per game at 61.8 points per game. Kaitlyn Potter has attempted the third-most 3-pointers in DII this year, firing off 199 shots from behind the arc. She ranks seventh in 3-point makes with 70 and leads the MIAA in both categories. Potter leads the team and ranks third in the MIAA with an average of 16.6 points per night.



<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580989746489.jpeg" alt="Courtesy FHSU Athletics / Allie Schweizer photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy FHSU Athletics / Allie Schweizer photo</figcaption>
 </figure>

The 23rd-ranked&nbsp;Fort Hays State women's basketball team has played Newman University 17 times since 1983, but the two teams will meet as MIAA rivals for the first time ever on Thursday inside Gross Memorial Coliseum. Opening tip between the Tigers (16-4, 7-4 MIAA) and Jets (9-13, 4-9 MIAA) is set for 5:30 p.m.Promotions Game Sponsor: Cancer Council of Ellis County National Anthem: Stockton High School Student Section Theme: Pink night Mascot Night: Victor E. Tiger and his mascot buddies will be hanging out for pictures, high fives and fun Halftime performance: Styles Dance Wear pink with our women's basketball team in support of Breast Cancer Awareness FHSU Athletics Greek Week Radio: KJLS (103.3-FM) <a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?stationCallSign=KJLS">LISTEN LIVE</a>Fort Hays State holds a 16-1 lead in the series with Newman, including a perfect 10-0 record at home. The Tigers are 7-1 against Newman under head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/coaches.aspx?rc=884">Tony Hobson</a>&nbsp;and 5-0 at home.Trips to the foul line could be few and far between on Thursday, with the Tigers (13.2 fouls/game) and Jets (13.3 fouls/game) ranking sixth and seventh in DII, respectively, in fewest personal fouls per game.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5438">Taylor Rolfs</a>&nbsp;averages 10 points per game in two meetings with the Jets, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5434">Kacey Kennett</a>&nbsp;has recorded 9.5 points and 6.0 rebounds per night in two games against Newman.Newman makes the short drive to Hays with a 9-13 record on the year, including a 4-9 mark in their first season as associate members of the MIAA. The Jets have not won a road game in two months (12/7 at Rogers State, losing their last four on the road. Newman is 3-7 away from Fugate Gymnasium this season. The Jets average 63.7 points per contest, ranking 10th in the MIAA, while allowing the sixth-fewest points per game at 61.8 points per game. Kaitlyn Potter has attempted the third-most 3-pointers in DII this year, firing off 199 shots from behind the arc. She ranks seventh in 3-point makes with 70 and leads the MIAA in both categories. Potter leads the team and ranks third in the MIAA with an average of 16.6 points per night.

FHSU Sports Information

No. 23 Tigers take on Jets Thursday at home

In addition to the major improvements slated for the north Vine Street Corridor in Hays, a shorter portion of south Vine Street will be reconstructed in 2022.

Last July, the city received a $1 million KDOT City Connecting Link&nbsp;Improvement Program Grant for the reconstruction of Vine Street from 350 feet&nbsp;south of 13th Street to the intersection of the U.S. 183 Bypass at the south city limit.&nbsp;

The $4 million dollar project includes replacement of the concrete pavement, select areas of curb and&nbsp;gutter, sidewalk ramps, pedestrian signals at 8th Street, storm sewer inlet tops, and&nbsp;pavement markings, according to John Braun, project manager.&nbsp;

Reconstruction includes the intersection of Vine Street and the U.S. 183 Bypass and proceeds north to approximately McDonald's restaurant.&nbsp;

City staff solicited proposals for design engineering services necessary to&nbsp;produce construction documents for KDOT to put out to bid. Proposals were received Jan. 6 from six firms with the low bid of $86,745 by Kaw Valley Engineers, Junction City.

During tonight's work session, city commissioners will consider authorizing City Manager Toby Dougherty to enter into the agreement with Kaw Valley Engineers.&nbsp;

Unlike the north Vine Street improvements, the city "doesn't expect any additional right of way will be needed" for this project, Braun told the commission in December.

Braun will tonight also review two agreements for the north Vine project regarding the federal BUILD grant and with KDOT. As the pass-through agency, KDOT will let bids and manage the project.&nbsp;

The project includes four new two-lane roundabouts at 32nd/33rd Streets, 37th Street and 41st Street, access-controlled intersections at the&nbsp;on/off ramps at I-70, bicycle lanes, and upgraded pedestrian crossings.&nbsp;A two-lane teardrop roundabout will be constructed at the I-70 eastbound on/off-ramps.&nbsp;The&nbsp;project will also reconstruct the west frontage road, connect 37th Street to Skyline Drive and&nbsp;Skyline Drive to 41st Street west of Vine Street, and construct a shared use path on the&nbsp;west side of Vine.

Other <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02062020-1173">Feb. 6 agenda</a> items include:

* Rezoning request of 2909 Roosevelt St. from Public and Institutional District (P-I) to Residential General District (R-G)

* Consider a public hearing and ordinance establishing the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District for the proposed travel plaza at Interstate 70 Exit 157

* Nuisance abatements at 1723 Agnes Drive and 520 W. 17th

The work session begins at 6:30 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580936464013.jpeg" alt="South Vine Street between McDonald's and Highway 183 Bypass will be reconstructed in 2022." />
 <figcaption>South Vine Street between McDonald's and Highway 183 Bypass will be reconstructed in 2022.</figcaption>
 </figure><div>By BECKY KISER Hays Post</div>In addition to the major improvements slated for the north Vine Street Corridor in Hays, a shorter portion of south Vine Street will be reconstructed in 2022.Last July, the city received a $1 million KDOT City Connecting Link&nbsp;Improvement Program Grant for the reconstruction of Vine Street from 350 feet&nbsp;south of 13th Street to the intersection of the U.S. 183 Bypass at the south city limit.&nbsp;<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/o2lAI3d1qPI"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The $4 million dollar project includes replacement of the concrete pavement, select areas of curb and&nbsp;gutter, sidewalk ramps, pedestrian signals at 8th Street, storm sewer inlet tops, and&nbsp;pavement markings, according to John Braun, project manager.&nbsp;Reconstruction includes the intersection of Vine Street and the U.S. 183 Bypass and proceeds north to approximately McDonald's restaurant.&nbsp;City staff solicited proposals for design engineering services necessary to&nbsp;produce construction documents for KDOT to put out to bid. Proposals were received Jan. 6 from six firms with the low bid of $86,745 by Kaw Valley Engineers, Junction City.During tonight's work session, city commissioners will consider authorizing City Manager Toby Dougherty to enter into the agreement with Kaw Valley Engineers.&nbsp;Unlike the north Vine Street improvements, the city "doesn't expect any additional right of way will be needed" for this project, Braun told the commission in December.Braun will tonight also review two agreements for the north Vine project regarding the federal BUILD grant and with KDOT. As the pass-through agency, KDOT will let bids and manage the project.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580940151209.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The project includes four new two-lane roundabouts at 32nd/33rd Streets, 37th Street and 41st Street, access-controlled intersections at the&nbsp;on/off ramps at I-70, bicycle lanes, and upgraded pedestrian crossings.&nbsp;A two-lane teardrop roundabout will be constructed at the I-70 eastbound on/off-ramps.&nbsp;The&nbsp;project will also reconstruct the west frontage road, connect 37th Street to Skyline Drive and&nbsp;Skyline Drive to 41st Street west of Vine Street, and construct a shared use path on the&nbsp;west side of Vine.Other <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02062020-1173">Feb. 6 agenda</a> items include:* Rezoning request of 2909 Roosevelt St. from Public and Institutional District (P-I) to Residential General District (R-G)* Consider a public hearing and ordinance establishing the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District for the proposed travel plaza at Interstate 70 Exit 157* Nuisance abatements at 1723 Agnes Drive and 520 W. 17th* Update on Oktoberfest activitiesThe work session begins at 6:30 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

🎥 South Vine reconstruction planned for 2022

SMITH CENTER – A Smith Center woman has been convicted of insurance fraud and related charges, Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said in a news release Wednesday.

Trisha A. Wiehl, 40, was found guilty today in Smith County District Court of one count of insurance fraud, four counts of theft, 35 counts of making false information, eight counts of insurance agent or broker failing to pay premium to company, six counts of forgery, and three counts of false impersonation. The case stemmed from an investigation by the Kansas Insurance Department and the attorney general’s Fraud and Abuse Litigation Division, which discovered that between May 2016 and August 2018, Wiehl committed numerous crimes related to her work as an insurance agent, including:

Chief Judge Preston Pratt, following a bench trial, today convicted Wiehl and ordered her to pay a $3,000 fine and serve 36 months probation. &nbsp;

The case was prosecuted by Assistant Attorney General Paul Brothers of Schmidt’s office.&nbsp;

SMITH CENTER – A Smith Center woman has been convicted of insurance fraud and related charges, Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said in a news release Wednesday.Trisha A. Wiehl, 40, was found guilty today in Smith County District Court of one count of insurance fraud, four counts of theft, 35 counts of making false information, eight counts of insurance agent or broker failing to pay premium to company, six counts of forgery, and three counts of false impersonation. The case stemmed from an investigation by the Kansas Insurance Department and the attorney general’s Fraud and Abuse Litigation Division, which discovered that between May 2016 and August 2018, Wiehl committed numerous crimes related to her work as an insurance agent, including:<ol>
 <li>Filing fraudulent and false insurance claims against her customers’ insurance policies and keeping the insurance payment for herself. The total amount of insurance payments Wiehl received through these claims was over $100,000.</li><li>Receiving payment of insurance premiums from customers, including the Smith County Fair Board, keeping the money for herself, and never obtaining an insurance policy for the customers.</li><li>Receiving payment of insurance premiums from customers, including the city of Smith Center and a local business, and keeping this money for herself rather than submitting the payments to the insurance companies.</li><li>Forging signatures, including the signature of the Smith Center City Clerk, to take out loans in the names of her customers and using those loan proceeds to pay their insurance premiums.</li>
 </ol>Chief Judge Preston Pratt, following a bench trial, today convicted Wiehl and ordered her to pay a $3,000 fine and serve 36 months probation. &nbsp;The case was prosecuted by Assistant Attorney General Paul Brothers of Schmidt’s office.&nbsp;

Smith Center woman convicted of insurance fraud, related charges

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The deadline for the fifth-annual First Call for Help Amazing Race is approaching, and the nonprofit has made some changes to make participating in the challenge more accessible.

Laura Schoaff, First Call project coordinator, noted the Amazing Race is not a foot race. It is a set of 10 challenges that are hosted by businesses across the city. People of all abilities ages 12 and older are encouraged to participate.&nbsp;

At least one member of the four-member team must be a licensed driver and have transportation.

First Call for help is a nonprofit that helps people in Ellis County in times of financial stress or crisis. The nonprofit will use all proceeds from the Amazing Race to support rent and utility assistance in Ellis County,&nbsp;Schoaff said. Local residents can apply for assistance once a year.

"[The money] gets used quickly, because there are a lot people in our town who are in need of assistance," Schoaff said.&nbsp;

First Call has decreased the team cost to $200. First Call already has donors who are willing to sponsor teams this year if a group of volunteers is unable to raise the full entry fee.

You can be a silver sponsor&nbsp; of the event for $1,500 or a bronze sponsor for $500. You can contact First Call for more information on these sponsorship levels.

If you don't have a full team of four, you can contact First Call and they will try to pair you with other racers to make a full team. If donors would like to give to the fundraiser, but they don't want to participate in the race, they can still sponsor a team.

Church or youth groups are encouraged to participate. Businesses are also challenged to mount teams. Teams can also wear costumes the day of the race if they wish. One year racers from Emprise Bank dressed up as bank robbers.

All team members with receive a free T-shirt and water bottle plus snacks.

This year the number of challenges have been decreased to 10. All the challenges, clues to the locations and challenge sites are kept secret until the day of the race. The challenges are changed every year.

Last year, teams had to count a bag of money at Sunflower Bank. One year, racers had to collect canned food for the First Call for Help pantry door to door. Yet another challenge included racers required to pose as mannequins in the Maurices window. Yet another year, the racers had to pick a diamond out of a case of cubic zirconia at Diamond R. Jewelry.&nbsp;

Teams have also decorated cookies, eaten snow cones, panhandled for doughnuts, and created flower arrangements and delivered them to a nursing home.

If you get stuck on a challenge, you might have consequences. You might have to give someone a compliment or complete an act of kindness before you can move on.

The winning team is determined on time.&nbsp;

"That is my goal," Schoaff said. "I want it to be fun. I want it to be something that everyone can be a success in. I don't want it to be so hard that no one likes it."

The contestants thus far have been game and accepted all the challenges that have been thrown at them.

"That is one of the things I love," Schoaff said. "The people come back, and they are so excited. They are, 'I'm going to do this again next year.' "&nbsp;

First Call has had great cooperation from the businesses in the community in the previous four years of the race,&nbsp;Schoaff said.

"It really gets people talking about locations that maybe they didn't have a reason to go into," she said. "Maybe they have never been in there before."&nbsp;

The Amazing Race will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 7. Check-in will be at 9:15 a.m. the day of the race at the Venue.

There will also be prizes this year for those who raise at least $100, $200 or $300.&nbsp;

Registration can be done online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/amazing-race">www.firstcallelliscounty.com/amazing-race</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-623-2800. The deadline to register is Monday, Feb. 24. The registration fee must be paid before the day of the race.

For more information, contact&nbsp;Schoaff at 785-623-2800 or see the First Call <a href="https://www.facebook.com/firstcallelliscounty/">Facebook page</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580851797323.jpeg" alt="Amazing Race contestants sort ducks at Pools Plus during the First Call for Help's 2019 Amazing Race. Registration is now open for the 2020 Amazing Race fundraiser.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Amazing Race contestants sort ducks at Pools Plus during the First Call for Help's 2019 Amazing Race. Registration is now open for the 2020 Amazing Race fundraiser.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe deadline for the fifth-annual First Call for Help Amazing Race is approaching, and the nonprofit has made some changes to make participating in the challenge more accessible.Laura Schoaff, First Call project coordinator, noted the Amazing Race is not a foot race. It is a set of 10 challenges that are hosted by businesses across the city. People of all abilities ages 12 and older are encouraged to participate.&nbsp;At least one member of the four-member team must be a licensed driver and have transportation.First Call for help is a nonprofit that helps people in Ellis County in times of financial stress or crisis. The nonprofit will use all proceeds from the Amazing Race to support rent and utility assistance in Ellis County,&nbsp;Schoaff said. Local residents can apply for assistance once a year."[The money] gets used quickly, because there are a lot people in our town who are in need of assistance," Schoaff said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580852004090.jpeg" alt="A team packs a motorcycle bag for weight during at Doerfler's Harley Davidson during the 2019 Amazing Race." />
 <figcaption>A team packs a motorcycle bag for weight during at Doerfler's Harley Davidson during the 2019 Amazing Race.</figcaption>
 </figure>First Call has decreased the team cost to $200. First Call already has donors who are willing to sponsor teams this year if a group of volunteers is unable to raise the full entry fee.You can be a silver sponsor&nbsp; of the event for $1,500 or a bronze sponsor for $500. You can contact First Call for more information on these sponsorship levels.If you don't have a full team of four, you can contact First Call and they will try to pair you with other racers to make a full team. If donors would like to give to the fundraiser, but they don't want to participate in the race, they can still sponsor a team.Church or youth groups are encouraged to participate. Businesses are also challenged to mount teams. Teams can also wear costumes the day of the race if they wish. One year racers from Emprise Bank dressed up as bank robbers.All team members with receive a free T-shirt and water bottle plus snacks.This year the number of challenges have been decreased to 10. All the challenges, clues to the locations and challenge sites are kept secret until the day of the race. The challenges are changed every year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580852193042.jpeg" alt="An Amazing Race team interviews a Homestead Assisted Living resident during the 2019 race." />
 <figcaption>An Amazing Race team interviews a Homestead Assisted Living resident during the 2019 race.</figcaption>
 </figure>Last year, teams had to count a bag of money at Sunflower Bank. One year, racers had to collect canned food for the First Call for Help pantry door to door. Yet another challenge included racers required to pose as mannequins in the Maurices window. Yet another year, the racers had to pick a diamond out of a case of cubic zirconia at Diamond R. Jewelry.&nbsp;Teams have also decorated cookies, eaten snow cones, panhandled for doughnuts, and created flower arrangements and delivered them to a nursing home.If you get stuck on a challenge, you might have consequences. You might have to give someone a compliment or complete an act of kindness before you can move on.The winning team is determined on time.&nbsp;"That is my goal," Schoaff said. "I want it to be fun. I want it to be something that everyone can be a success in. I don't want it to be so hard that no one likes it."The contestants thus far have been game and accepted all the challenges that have been thrown at them."That is one of the things I love," Schoaff said. "The people come back, and they are so excited. They are, 'I'm going to do this again next year.' "&nbsp;First Call has had great cooperation from the businesses in the community in the previous four years of the race,&nbsp;Schoaff said."It really gets people talking about locations that maybe they didn't have a reason to go into," she said. "Maybe they have never been in there before."&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580852437801.jpeg" alt="An Amazing Race team member putts at Precision Valley Golf during the race last year." />
 <figcaption>An Amazing Race team member putts at Precision Valley Golf during the race last year.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Amazing Race will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 7. Check-in will be at 9:15 a.m. the day of the race at the Venue.There will also be prizes this year for those who raise at least $100, $200 or $300.&nbsp;Registration can be done online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/amazing-race">www.firstcallelliscounty.com/amazing-race</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-623-2800. The deadline to register is Monday, Feb. 24. The registration fee must be paid before the day of the race.For more information, contact&nbsp;Schoaff at 785-623-2800 or see the First Call <a href="https://www.facebook.com/firstcallelliscounty/">Facebook page</a>.

First Call for Help's Amazing Race seeks teams; deadline Feb. 24

Cornerstone Orthodontics, 2707 Vine, Ste. 5, has created to nonprofit registry to help provide foster children with supplies for activities and learning tools.

The items will be used by children who spend their days at the St. Francis Community Services offices.

The view the registry and take part in the "Share the Love" drive in the month of February, click <a href="https://www.walmart.com/lists/view-events-registry-items?id=9d534507-8982-4a38-9029-b8da2afbdc6a&amp;fbclid=IwAR0f9KsK78xbOvsy-qHDlVYkixQ8wI9vGZRLZLpRn_l48N618T-MEFCeB5A">HERE</a>.

Cornerstone Orthodontics, 2707 Vine, Ste. 5, has created to nonprofit registry to help provide foster children with supplies for activities and learning tools.The items will be used by children who spend their days at the St. Francis Community Services offices.The view the registry and take part in the "Share the Love" drive in the month of February, click <a href="https://www.walmart.com/lists/view-events-registry-items?id=9d534507-8982-4a38-9029-b8da2afbdc6a&amp;fbclid=IwAR0f9KsK78xbOvsy-qHDlVYkixQ8wI9vGZRLZLpRn_l48N618T-MEFCeB5A">HERE</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580849360898.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Items for foster children gathered in 'Share the Love' drive

All Ellis County High School Students are invited to participate in the Ellis County Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge set for Wednesday, March 11, at 9 a.m. at BriefSpace, 219 West 10th.&nbsp;

The YEC Series is a NetWork Kansas program, presented in partnership with the Kansas State University Center for Entrepreneurship and the Kansas Masons to provide prize money to YEC event winners and access to the state-wide competition, the Kansas Entrepreneurship Challenge.

The local entrepreneurship competition is hosted by Grow Hays, Investing in Ellis County, and involves students preparing a written business plan or executive summary, a “tradeshow booth” (similar to a science fair tabletop display and will be provided to each team, and a pitch or presentation. Students register, submit their executive summary, and then present their trade show booth and four-minute presentation at the event on March 11.&nbsp; Students’ work is judged by local entrepreneurs, resource partners or other adults.&nbsp;Students can compete individually or as a team.

First-, second- and third-place winners&nbsp;will earn their share of $1,200 in cash prizes. All entries are also eligible for $200 prize awards for Best Trade Show, Ready to Launch and People's Choice sponsored by&nbsp;Midwest Energy, Nex-Generation and Sunflower Electric.

During the 2018-19 academic year, NetWork Kansas E-Communities held 40 local-level youth entrepreneurship competitions for more than 850 entrepreneurs as part of the Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge Series, culminating in a statewide championship. Grow Hays held its first YEC competition in March 2019 with TMP's Ethan Lang taking first place locally and also nabbing top honors at the State KEC at K-State.

Those interested in participating can find additional information at&nbsp;<a href="https://yecapp.knack.com/yec-version-20#welcome/">https://yecapp.knack.com/yec-version-20#welcome/</a>&nbsp;or by calling Grow Hays at 785.628.3102.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579031366928.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Grow HaysAll Ellis County High School Students are invited to participate in the Ellis County Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge set for Wednesday, March 11, at 9 a.m. at BriefSpace, 219 West 10th.&nbsp;The YEC Series is a NetWork Kansas program, presented in partnership with the Kansas State University Center for Entrepreneurship and the Kansas Masons to provide prize money to YEC event winners and access to the state-wide competition, the Kansas Entrepreneurship Challenge.The local entrepreneurship competition is hosted by Grow Hays, Investing in Ellis County, and involves students preparing a written business plan or executive summary, a “tradeshow booth” (similar to a science fair tabletop display and will be provided to each team, and a pitch or presentation. Students register, submit their executive summary, and then present their trade show booth and four-minute presentation at the event on March 11.&nbsp; Students’ work is judged by local entrepreneurs, resource partners or other adults.&nbsp;Students can compete individually or as a team.First-, second- and third-place winners&nbsp;will earn their share of $1,200 in cash prizes. All entries are also eligible for $200 prize awards for Best Trade Show, Ready to Launch and People's Choice sponsored by&nbsp;Midwest Energy, Nex-Generation and Sunflower Electric.During the 2018-19 academic year, NetWork Kansas E-Communities held 40 local-level youth entrepreneurship competitions for more than 850 entrepreneurs as part of the Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge Series, culminating in a statewide championship. Grow Hays held its first YEC competition in March 2019 with TMP's Ethan Lang taking first place locally and also nabbing top honors at the State KEC at K-State.Those interested in participating can find additional information at&nbsp;<a href="https://yecapp.knack.com/yec-version-20#welcome/">https://yecapp.knack.com/yec-version-20#welcome/</a>&nbsp;or by calling Grow Hays at 785.628.3102.&nbsp;

Ellis Co. Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge set for next month

Public radio performers featured on nationally syndicated shows, Mountain Stage and Prairie Home Companion, are coming to St. Francis on Sunday, Feb. 9. The 3 p.m. Central show is scheduled for the St. Francis Community High School Auditorium.

Grammy Award winning singer Mollie O’Brien and her husband, professional guitarist Rich Moore, have mined the vast range of American roots music from traditional folk, jazz, blues and rock to create a varied and entertaining show for the <a href="http://www.wpaa.us/">Western Plains Arts Association</a>.

Admission is by WPAA season ticket or adults $10 and students $5. 50th anniversary season programs are made possible through the generous support of area businesses and individuals, including a grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan, Kan.

Here is what a few leaders in the music industry say about O’Brien: ”An incredible singer and fantastic guitarist performing some of the best songs you’ll ever hear in one show…In 27 years of performing on Mountain Stage, she’s one of the top three best singers ever to perform on the show,” Larry Groce, artistic director and host, Mountain Stage. Led Zeppelin’s John Paul Jones said, “If you want to know what singing is all about, listen to Mollie O’Brien.” The Washington Post wrote, “The precision of her phrasing, the smooth flow of her delivery and the sheer beauty of her alto make her one of the best interpretive singers in American pop today.”

O’Brien and Moore have been married more than 30 years, making beautiful music together and apart. They met in 1981 at the Denver Folklore Center and married a few years later. At the time they were involved in their own bands and working solidly all over Colorado – Mollie was singing with Prosperity Jazz Band, a vintage swing band which featured local luminary Washboard Chaz among others; Rich was playing bass with the rock-steady blues band, The Late Show. Within a years Mollie joined The Late Show, and they attracted notice outside the bar band scene and began playing Colorado blues festivals and concerts. A few years of marriage and two daughters later, things began to change. O’Brien quit the blues band and Moore got a day job that he held until both of their daughters graduated from college. 

O’Brien became known to the rest of the world as a singer’s singer when, in 1988, she and her brother Tim released the first of three critically-acclaimed albums. Eventually, Mollie recorded five equally well-received solo albums. She was a regular on the nationally-syndicated radio show, “A Prairie Home Companion” from 2001 through 2005, and has long been known as a singer who doesn’t recognize a lot of musical boundaries. Audiences love her fluid ability to make herself at home in any genre while never sacrificing the essence of the song she tackles. She has primarily focused her efforts on the fading art of&nbsp;interpretation and the end result is a singer at the very top of her game who is not afraid to take risks both vocally and in the material she chooses.

Moore has immersed himself in the Colorado music scene for many years. While staying home with the kids when Mollie and Tim toured, he held a day job and continued to perform locally with a variety of Colorado favorites, including Pete Wernick and Celeste Krenz. Not only is Moore known to produce some of the funniest onstage running commentary, he’s also a powerhouse guitar player who can keep up with O’Brien’s twists and turns from blues to traditional folk to jazz to rock and roll. He creates a band with just his guitar and, as a result, theirs is an equal partnership.

The duo has released three CDs that showcase their talent for unlocking the secrets to a diverse array of songs in authoritative yet very fun and unusual arrangements. Visit their website: <a href="https://mollieobrien.com/">mollieobrien.com</a> for more information.

O’Brien and Moore let us know via their choice of material that they are not afraid to take risks. It’s almost as if they’re telling us that at this stage in their lives, they are at home with their musical selves – they can do whatever they want and they don’t care if the rest of the world agrees with them.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580856835360.jpeg" alt="Grammy Award winning singer Mollie O’Brien and her husband, professional guitarist Rich Moore will perform in St. Francis." />
 <figcaption>Grammy Award winning singer Mollie O’Brien and her husband, professional guitarist Rich Moore will perform in St. Francis.</figcaption>
 </figure>WPAAPublic radio performers featured on nationally syndicated shows, Mountain Stage and Prairie Home Companion, are coming to St. Francis on Sunday, Feb. 9. The 3 p.m. Central show is scheduled for the St. Francis Community High School Auditorium.Grammy Award winning singer Mollie O’Brien and her husband, professional guitarist Rich Moore, have mined the vast range of American roots music from traditional folk, jazz, blues and rock to create a varied and entertaining show for the <a href="http://www.wpaa.us/">Western Plains Arts Association</a>.Admission is by WPAA season ticket or adults $10 and students $5. 50th anniversary season programs are made possible through the generous support of area businesses and individuals, including a grant from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan, Kan.Here is what a few leaders in the music industry say about O’Brien: ”An incredible singer and fantastic guitarist performing some of the best songs you’ll ever hear in one show…In 27 years of performing on Mountain Stage, she’s one of the top three best singers ever to perform on the show,” Larry Groce, artistic director and host, Mountain Stage. Led Zeppelin’s John Paul Jones said, “If you want to know what singing is all about, listen to Mollie O’Brien.” The Washington Post wrote, “The precision of her phrasing, the smooth flow of her delivery and the sheer beauty of her alto make her one of the best interpretive singers in American pop today.”O’Brien and Moore have been married more than 30 years, making beautiful music together and apart. They met in 1981 at the Denver Folklore Center and married a few years later. At the time they were involved in their own bands and working solidly all over Colorado – Mollie was singing with Prosperity Jazz Band, a vintage swing band which featured local luminary Washboard Chaz among others; Rich was playing bass with the rock-steady blues band, The Late Show. Within a years Mollie joined The Late Show, and they attracted notice outside the bar band scene and began playing Colorado blues festivals and concerts. A few years of marriage and two daughters later, things began to change. O’Brien quit the blues band and Moore got a day job that he held until both of their daughters graduated from college. Now, here’s how things turned out.O’Brien became known to the rest of the world as a singer’s singer when, in 1988, she and her brother Tim released the first of three critically-acclaimed albums. Eventually, Mollie recorded five equally well-received solo albums. She was a regular on the nationally-syndicated radio show, “A Prairie Home Companion” from 2001 through 2005, and has long been known as a singer who doesn’t recognize a lot of musical boundaries. Audiences love her fluid ability to make herself at home in any genre while never sacrificing the essence of the song she tackles. She has primarily focused her efforts on the fading art of&nbsp;interpretation and the end result is a singer at the very top of her game who is not afraid to take risks both vocally and in the material she chooses.Moore has immersed himself in the Colorado music scene for many years. While staying home with the kids when Mollie and Tim toured, he held a day job and continued to perform locally with a variety of Colorado favorites, including Pete Wernick and Celeste Krenz. Not only is Moore known to produce some of the funniest onstage running commentary, he’s also a powerhouse guitar player who can keep up with O’Brien’s twists and turns from blues to traditional folk to jazz to rock and roll. He creates a band with just his guitar and, as a result, theirs is an equal partnership.The duo has released three CDs that showcase their talent for unlocking the secrets to a diverse array of songs in authoritative yet very fun and unusual arrangements. Visit their website: <a href="https://mollieobrien.com/">mollieobrien.com</a> for more information.O’Brien and Moore let us know via their choice of material that they are not afraid to take risks. It’s almost as if they’re telling us that at this stage in their lives, they are at home with their musical selves – they can do whatever they want and they don’t care if the rest of the world agrees with them.

Grammy winner, public radio musicians to perform in NW Kan.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/state-farm-weather-window/">For a full look at weather visit the State Farm Weather Window by clicking here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575929617735.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/state-farm-weather-window/">For a full look at weather visit the State Farm Weather Window by clicking here.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580944985455.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Three-day weather outlook

The Certified Public Accountants of Brungardt Hower Ward Elliott &amp; Pfeifer, L.C. announced this week that Mariah Brungardt, Rachel Cofer, Jodi Jensen, Mallory Milstead and Tylor Shepherd will be completing internships with the firm during the spring 2020 semester.&nbsp; 

They will be working in the Hays office in the tax department.&nbsp;

Mariah is in her second year of internship and is completing her master’s degree at Fort Hays State University. She is originally from WaKeeney.&nbsp;

Rachel is originally from Ransom, and Mallory is from Granby, Colo. Tylor from Hutchinson, Kansas.&nbsp; 

All three are pursuing accounting undergraduate degrees from Fort Hays State University.&nbsp; 

Jodi hails from Council Grove and is completing her master’s degree from Emporia State University after receiving her bachelor’s from Kansas State University.&nbsp; Jodi will begin working full-time with the firm upon completion of the spring semester.

Brungardt Hower, with offices in Hays, Garden City and Johnson, serves clients in central and western Kansas.

The Certified Public Accountants of Brungardt Hower Ward Elliott &amp; Pfeifer, L.C. announced this week that Mariah Brungardt, Rachel Cofer, Jodi Jensen, Mallory Milstead and Tylor Shepherd will be completing internships with the firm during the spring 2020 semester.&nbsp; They will be working in the Hays office in the tax department.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580919908409.jpeg" alt="Brungardt" />
 <figcaption>Brungardt</figcaption>
 </figure>Mariah is in her second year of internship and is completing her master’s degree at Fort Hays State University. She is originally from WaKeeney.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580919939074.jpeg" alt="Cofer" />
 <figcaption>Cofer</figcaption>
 </figure>Rachel is originally from Ransom, and Mallory is from Granby, Colo. Tylor from Hutchinson, Kansas.&nbsp; All three are pursuing accounting undergraduate degrees from Fort Hays State University.&nbsp; Jodi hails from Council Grove and is completing her master’s degree from Emporia State University after receiving her bachelor’s from Kansas State University.&nbsp; Jodi will begin working full-time with the firm upon completion of the spring semester.Brungardt Hower, with offices in Hays, Garden City and Johnson, serves clients in central and western Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580920018750.jpeg" alt="Jensen" />
 <figcaption>Jensen</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580920044568.jpeg" alt="Milstead" />
 <figcaption>Milstead</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580920064044.jpeg" alt="Shepherd" />
 <figcaption>Shepherd</figcaption>
 </figure>

Area students join Hays accounting office as interns

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile notifications click here.</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5dd2f46c897d147ad4bb104b">To find out more about The Post Podcast, or subscribe to mobile notifications click here.</a><div><iframe title="Avoid phone scams with these tips from the ECSO" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/wymrs-d283d4?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&skin=3&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div>

🎤Post Podcast: Avoid phone scams with these tips from the ECSO

ELLIS — The annual KAY Snowball Dance will be on Saturday, Feb. 15.&nbsp; Promenade will be at the Ellis Good Samaritan Nursing Home from 6 to 7:45 p.m. Pictures start at 7:30 p.m., and the dance begins at 8 p.m.&nbsp; 

Crowning for Snowball Royalty will be at approximately 10 p.m.&nbsp;

Back Row (L-R, Freshmen):&nbsp; Hannah Schiel, daughter of Jared and Beth Schiel; Dakota Metzler, son of Jim and Becky Metzler; Emily Eck, daughter of Mark and Sarah Eck; William Crawford, son of Bret and Kimberly Andries and the late George Crawford III; and Myah McCoy, daughter of Casey and Melanie McCoy.

3rd Row (L-R, Sophomores):&nbsp; Lakyn Fischer, daughter of DJ and Julie Fischer; Sam Honas, son of Randy and Wendy Honas; Michelle Gottschalk, daughter of Dean and Julie Gottschalk; Zeke Haag, son of Ron and Latisha Haag; and Madison Gottschalk, daughter of Dean and Julie Gottschalk.

2nd Row (L-R, Juniors):&nbsp; Brady Frickey, son of Brad and Stacy Frickey; Kassidy Winter, daughter of Vic and Joan Winter; Jaryn Wildeman, son of David and Tara Wildeman; Abigail North, daughter of Travis and Ava North; Zach Schiel, son of Jared and Beth Schiel; and Morgan Bittel, daughter of Brady Bittel and Tammy Rudd.

Front Row (L-R, Seniors):&nbsp; Rylee Werth, daughter of Rodney and Cristi Werth; Karista Pugh, daughter of guardians Melvin and Tracy Kinderknecht; and Abigail Mattheyer, daughter of Dustin and Mara Mattheyer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580937579750.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS — The annual KAY Snowball Dance will be on Saturday, Feb. 15.&nbsp; Promenade will be at the Ellis Good Samaritan Nursing Home from 6 to 7:45 p.m. Pictures start at 7:30 p.m., and the dance begins at 8 p.m.&nbsp; Crowning for Snowball Royalty will be at approximately 10 p.m.&nbsp;<h2>Ellis High School, Snowball Royalty 2020</h2>Back Row (L-R, Freshmen):&nbsp; Hannah Schiel, daughter of Jared and Beth Schiel; Dakota Metzler, son of Jim and Becky Metzler; Emily Eck, daughter of Mark and Sarah Eck; William Crawford, son of Bret and Kimberly Andries and the late George Crawford III; and Myah McCoy, daughter of Casey and Melanie McCoy.3rd Row (L-R, Sophomores):&nbsp; Lakyn Fischer, daughter of DJ and Julie Fischer; Sam Honas, son of Randy and Wendy Honas; Michelle Gottschalk, daughter of Dean and Julie Gottschalk; Zeke Haag, son of Ron and Latisha Haag; and Madison Gottschalk, daughter of Dean and Julie Gottschalk.2nd Row (L-R, Juniors):&nbsp; Brady Frickey, son of Brad and Stacy Frickey; Kassidy Winter, daughter of Vic and Joan Winter; Jaryn Wildeman, son of David and Tara Wildeman; Abigail North, daughter of Travis and Ava North; Zach Schiel, son of Jared and Beth Schiel; and Morgan Bittel, daughter of Brady Bittel and Tammy Rudd.Front Row (L-R, Seniors):&nbsp; Rylee Werth, daughter of Rodney and Cristi Werth; Karista Pugh, daughter of guardians Melvin and Tracy Kinderknecht; and Abigail Mattheyer, daughter of Dustin and Mara Mattheyer.— Ellis High School

Ellis High announces 2020 Snowball Royalty

ELLIS — They may be new to the area, but Lutheran Pastor John Morley
and his wife, Gigi, have quickly become an active part of Ellis community. 

“This community has been very warm and loving,” John said. “It
feels like we are home again.”

But after exploring their new hometown, they found something
lacking.

And with diverse backgrounds that include commercial kitchen
and business management experience, they decided they could bring something to area
residents that Ellis is missing – a homestyle diner that will be
shaped by the community.

The couple will soon open Gigi’s Cafe, 814 Washington, for breakfast and lunch in downtown Ellis.

The Morleys came to Ellis after John accepted the pastor position
at the Christ Lutheran Church, 106 E. Eighth, near the end of September.

“The second day we were here, we walked down Main street and
when she passed this place, her eyes just lit up,” John said.

A couple of months later, they decided to give it a go and
began working on opening the restaurant.

“Everything has just fallen into place since then,” John
said.

With homestyle decor peppered with local history, the couple is working to achieve a feel they describe as “cozy.”

John said there will be two aspects to the diner he
hopes will draw people.

The first, he said, is simply “sit-down, good, country home
cooking.”

The other feature, which is a little more unique, is a
grab-and-go counter near the front door.

People can come in, get a cup of coffee, a homemade sausage-egg-and-cheese biscuit, burritos, or other items that people can stop in and grab,
John said. 

“There is nowhere else to get that,” he said. “Ideally, they
can just stop in, grab it and go.”

The breakfast menu will feature traditional items, served
quickly and the lunch menu will feature a classic diner items including burgers
and sandwiches and will offer daily rotating lunch specials featured on their
facebook page.

“We are going to do very few things, but what we are going
do to we are going to do very well,” John well.

As the community begins to frequent the restaurant, they
said they will shape the business to fit what their customers' desire.

“We are always going to be looking for what people want,”
John said. “It’s the service industry and we are here to serve.”

“There are going to be a lot of people that don’t like what
you like,” Gigi said. “You want to make it so everybody will find something they
like.”

Like the customer-centered menu, they hope the business will
become a “unifying” place for the community and be of service as much as
possible while helping promote the community’s small-town charm.

“Coming as strangers into a new community, brand new to
Ellis, we look around and we see all these beautiful things that Ellis has to
offer … this is really cool stuff,” John said.

The menu and decor will reflect that history and embrace
what makes Ellis such a great place to live, John said and will feature
information about local attractions such as the Walter P. Chrysler Boyhood Home
and the Railroad Museum.

And with no other restaurant like theirs in Ellis, they
believe they will add to the community.

“We are not trying to compete. We are trying to accentuate,”
John said.

“That’s the beauty of small towns. You can’t do that in a
big city,” he said. “There is uniqueness to Ellis that you can do that.”

Helping the community is something important to them and
they are actively looking for ways to incorporate as much as they can into the
Ellis community.

“Just opening this restaurant, we have experienced a sense of
unity that I think has really been helpful,” John said. He said everybody has
been wonderfully supportive.

“We are trying to keep as much as we can local,” Gigi said.

“We are doing our best to stimulate what we can,” John said.


A part of that community support is hiring staff bringing more jobs to the city.

While they complete work inside the building to prepare for
menu tastings and ultimately the opening, some staff members are already in
place.

“So far, it’s been pretty good,” Gigi said of the hiring
process. She will serve as the primary cook and will mostly need to hire
servers. &nbsp;John will help out in the
kitchen as well.

They have already hired three part-time staff members, but
are waiting to determine final staffing levels after seeing the amount of business
that comes in.

“Right now, we feel pretty confident,” Gigi said.

Outside of running the restaurant, they are excited to bring
life back into a building in downtown.

“It’s been a lot of different things,” Gigi said, recalling
conversations about the building being a flower shop, an antique store and two
other cafes over the years.

Once the restaurant opens, they are already exploring using
the cafe as a center for youth to have a place to gather during weekend evenings.

“We really are viewing this as a way we can help the
community,” John said.

A tentative opening date of March 10 has been set. Hours will be 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

To follow the progress of the opening, visit <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MorleyGigi/">Gigi’s Cafe Facebook
page.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580854440562.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostELLIS — They may be new to the area, but Lutheran Pastor John Morley
and his wife, Gigi, have quickly become an active part of Ellis community. “This community has been very warm and loving,” John said. “It
feels like we are home again.”But after exploring their new hometown, they found something
lacking.And with diverse backgrounds that include commercial kitchen
and business management experience, they decided they could bring something to area
residents that Ellis is missing – a homestyle diner that will be
shaped by the community.The couple will soon open Gigi’s Cafe, 814 Washington, for breakfast and lunch in downtown Ellis.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580854298831.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Morleys came to Ellis after John accepted the pastor position
at the Christ Lutheran Church, 106 E. Eighth, near the end of September.“The second day we were here, we walked down Main street and
when she passed this place, her eyes just lit up,” John said.A couple of months later, they decided to give it a go and
began working on opening the restaurant.“Everything has just fallen into place since then,” John
said.With homestyle decor peppered with local history, the couple is working to achieve a feel they describe as “cozy.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580854183150.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>John said there will be two aspects to the diner he
hopes will draw people.The first, he said, is simply “sit-down, good, country home
cooking.”The other feature, which is a little more unique, is a
grab-and-go counter near the front door.People can come in, get a cup of coffee, a homemade sausage-egg-and-cheese biscuit, burritos, or other items that people can stop in and grab,
John said. “There is nowhere else to get that,” he said. “Ideally, they
can just stop in, grab it and go.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580854206767.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The breakfast menu will feature traditional items, served
quickly and the lunch menu will feature a classic diner items including burgers
and sandwiches and will offer daily rotating lunch specials featured on their
facebook page.“We are going to do very few things, but what we are going
do to we are going to do very well,” John well.As the community begins to frequent the restaurant, they
said they will shape the business to fit what their customers' desire.“We are always going to be looking for what people want,”
John said. “It’s the service industry and we are here to serve.”“There are going to be a lot of people that don’t like what
you like,” Gigi said. “You want to make it so everybody will find something they
like.”Like the customer-centered menu, they hope the business will
become a “unifying” place for the community and be of service as much as
possible while helping promote the community’s small-town charm.“Coming as strangers into a new community, brand new to
Ellis, we look around and we see all these beautiful things that Ellis has to
offer … this is really cool stuff,” John said.The menu and decor will reflect that history and embrace
what makes Ellis such a great place to live, John said and will feature
information about local attractions such as the Walter P. Chrysler Boyhood Home
and the Railroad Museum.And with no other restaurant like theirs in Ellis, they
believe they will add to the community.“We are not trying to compete. We are trying to accentuate,”
John said.“That’s the beauty of small towns. You can’t do that in a
big city,” he said. “There is uniqueness to Ellis that you can do that.”Helping the community is something important to them and
they are actively looking for ways to incorporate as much as they can into the
Ellis community.“Just opening this restaurant, we have experienced a sense of
unity that I think has really been helpful,” John said. He said everybody has
been wonderfully supportive.“We are trying to keep as much as we can local,” Gigi said.“We are doing our best to stimulate what we can,” John said.
A part of that community support is hiring staff bringing more jobs to the city.While they complete work inside the building to prepare for
menu tastings and ultimately the opening, some staff members are already in
place.“So far, it’s been pretty good,” Gigi said of the hiring
process. She will serve as the primary cook and will mostly need to hire
servers. &nbsp;John will help out in the
kitchen as well.They have already hired three part-time staff members, but
are waiting to determine final staffing levels after seeing the amount of business
that comes in.“Right now, we feel pretty confident,” Gigi said.Outside of running the restaurant, they are excited to bring
life back into a building in downtown.“It’s been a lot of different things,” Gigi said, recalling
conversations about the building being a flower shop, an antique store and two
other cafes over the years.Once the restaurant opens, they are already exploring using
the cafe as a center for youth to have a place to gather during weekend evenings.“We really are viewing this as a way we can help the
community,” John said.A tentative opening date of March 10 has been set. Hours will be 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.To follow the progress of the opening, visit <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MorleyGigi/">Gigi’s Cafe Facebook
page.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580854151039.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Gigi's Cafe to bring something new, yet familiar to Ellis

The Hays Area Childrens Center, 94 Lewis Drive, will be closed&nbsp; Thursday and Friday due to illness.

Kate Schippers, child care coordinator, said over 40 percent of students and staff are out because of a variety of illnesses, including strep, flu and pink eye.

She said the staff will be working disinfecting and cleaning the facility on Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580941656224.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Area Childrens Center, 94 Lewis Drive, will be closed&nbsp; Thursday and Friday due to illness.Kate Schippers, child care coordinator, said over 40 percent of students and staff are out because of a variety of illnesses, including strep, flu and pink eye.She said the staff will be working disinfecting and cleaning the facility on Thursday.

Hays Area Childrens Center closed Thursday, Friday due to illness

CALHAN, Colo. — Colorado State Patrol says the victim who was killed in a crash on Highway 24 near Calhan was a 22-year-old Fort Hays State University graduate from Colorado Springs.

CSP gave an update Tuesday about the crash, <a href="https://krdo.com/news/top-stories/2020/02/03/colorado-state-patrol-investigating-fatal-crash-on-hwy-24/">which happened shortly after noon Monday east of Calhan.</a>

According to CSP, Alexis-Athena Wyatt was the driver of the Honda Fit that was struck by an oncoming semi. Troopers say Wyatt lost control of the car on an icy road and drifted into the oncoming lane.

The driver of the semi was identified as 33-year-old Robert Johnson of Canon City. He wasn't injured in the crash.

<a href="https://www.theknot.com/us/alexis-athena-wyatt-and-justin-montney-may-2020">According to wedding website TheKnot, Wyatt was engaged to be married on May 23 to Justin Montney.</a>

Wyatt earned her bachelor's degree English teaching from FHSU in 2019. She&nbsp;was involved in numerous activities and organizations while at FHSU, including the Sigma Tau Delta English Honor Society, Encounter, Tiger PALS, FHSU Honors College, Fort Hays Honor Society, Christian Challenge, McMindes Hall Council, Writing Center professional development, Hays Night to Shine and Delta Zeta’s Day of Service.

She also served as president of the&nbsp;Delta Omega Chapter of Delta Zeta Sorority.

<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/j5hevp-alexisathena-wyatt?fbclid=IwAR0zjGo9AR6exehn9n5rOGXPoN5nbAgc9mslPZYEDrddfmBVkTC5i7Xp6xE">A GoFundMe page has been established.</a>

<a href="https://krdo.com/about-us/">Information courtesy KRDO NewsRadio, Colorado Springs</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580916411435.jpeg" alt="<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/j5hevp-alexisathena-wyatt?fbclid=IwAR0zjGo9AR6exehn9n5rOGXPoN5nbAgc9mslPZYEDrddfmBVkTC5i7Xp6xE">GoFundMe photo</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/j5hevp-alexisathena-wyatt?fbclid=IwAR0zjGo9AR6exehn9n5rOGXPoN5nbAgc9mslPZYEDrddfmBVkTC5i7Xp6xE">GoFundMe photo</a></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://krdo.com/news/top-stories/2020/02/04/victim-identified-in-fatal-crash-on-hwy-24-near-calhan/">KRDO</a>CALHAN, Colo. — Colorado State Patrol says the victim who was killed in a crash on Highway 24 near Calhan was a 22-year-old Fort Hays State University graduate from Colorado Springs.CSP gave an update Tuesday about the crash, <a href="https://krdo.com/news/top-stories/2020/02/03/colorado-state-patrol-investigating-fatal-crash-on-hwy-24/">which happened shortly after noon Monday east of Calhan.</a>According to CSP, Alexis-Athena Wyatt was the driver of the Honda Fit that was struck by an oncoming semi. Troopers say Wyatt lost control of the car on an icy road and drifted into the oncoming lane.The driver of the semi was identified as 33-year-old Robert Johnson of Canon City. He wasn't injured in the crash.<a href="https://www.theknot.com/us/alexis-athena-wyatt-and-justin-montney-may-2020">According to wedding website TheKnot, Wyatt was engaged to be married on May 23 to Justin Montney.</a>Wyatt earned her bachelor's degree English teaching from FHSU in 2019. She&nbsp;was involved in numerous activities and organizations while at FHSU, including the Sigma Tau Delta English Honor Society, Encounter, Tiger PALS, FHSU Honors College, Fort Hays Honor Society, Christian Challenge, McMindes Hall Council, Writing Center professional development, Hays Night to Shine and Delta Zeta’s Day of Service.She also served as president of the&nbsp;Delta Omega Chapter of Delta Zeta Sorority.<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/j5hevp-alexisathena-wyatt?fbclid=IwAR0zjGo9AR6exehn9n5rOGXPoN5nbAgc9mslPZYEDrddfmBVkTC5i7Xp6xE">A GoFundMe page has been established.</a><a href="https://krdo.com/about-us/">Information courtesy KRDO NewsRadio, Colorado Springs</a>

Recent Fort Hays State grad killed in Colo. traffic accident

Wednesday, February 5, 2020 is National Signing Day as Fort Hays State head football coach&nbsp;<a href="http://fhsuathletics.com/coaches.aspx?rc=432">Chris Brown</a>&nbsp;and the Tiger football coaching staff announce signings for the 2020 season. The next Tiger Football recruiting class will be sending in their National Letters of Intent (NLI) throughout the day.

Keep an eye on this page throughout Wednesday for updates on the latest signees. Student-athletes will be added to the list below once their NLI's have been received.

Also, follow&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/fhsufootball">@FHSUFootball</a>&nbsp;Twitter as we introduce and welcome each signee to the Tiger Football family.



Sam Brandt, DB, 5-10, 185, Piedmont, Okla. / Bethany HS

Notes: Two-time all-state selection at defensive back by&nbsp;The Oklahoman...Two-time all-state selection at both quarterback and defensive back by&nbsp;Tulsa World...2019 all-state by the Oklahoma Coaches Association...2019 Little All-City Defensive Player of the Year by&nbsp;The Oklahoman...2019 District 4A-2 Player of the Year...As a senior produced 83 tackles and 3 interceptions on defense, while throwing for 2,486 yards and 25 touchdowns and rushing for 1,098 yards with 12 touchdowns as a quarterback.

Hayden Brown, RB, 5-11, 185, Hays, Kan. / Hays HS

Notes: Two-time all-state selection by both the&nbsp;Topeka Capital Journal&nbsp;and&nbsp;Wichita Eagle...KFBCA Class 5A All-State selection...Selected to the 2020 Kansas Shrine Bowl...Ranks third in Hays High School history for total points, rushing yards and attempts, and receptions...Produced over 2,000 career rushing yards and over 1,000 career receiving yards with 32 touchdowns and 3 kickoff return touchdowns.

Max Bullinger, TE, 6-2, 200, Colwich, Kan. / Bishop Carroll HS

Notes: All-City First Team selection at tight end as a senior...All-state honorable mention selection in 2019.

Aaron Corbin, OL, 6-2, 290, Edmond, Okla. / Deer Creek HS

Notes: As a senior, named All-District Offensive Lineman of the Year...Named to All-Conference, All-Big City, and All-State teams on the offensive line...Deer Creek Offensive Player of the Year...Four-year starter...Team captain...Helped Deer Creek to 231.6 rushing yards per game in 2019.

Austin Dale, LB, 6-1, 215, Hugoton, Kan. / Hugoton HS

Notes: All-state honorable mention selection at linebacker...Recorded 127 tackles as a senior...All-league selection at both linebacker and running back...Named to the KMEA All-State Band three years for tenor saxophone...National John Phillip Sousa Honor Band Participant.

Jack Dawson, QB, 5-11, 185, Arlington, Texas / Lamar HS

Notes: As a senior, earned all-district first team honors...As a junior, named District 4-6A Offensive Player of the Year...As a sophomore, named the District 4-6A Offensive Sophomore of the Year...Named his team's Offensive Player of the Year three times...Three-time Academic All-District selection...Recorded 7,629 passing yards on 491 completions with 90 passing touchdowns and 107 total touchdowns throughout his prep career...Owns the Arlington city records for career passing yards, completions, passing touchdowns, and total touchdowns.

Syris Dunlap, WR, 5-8, 170, Liberal, Kan. / Liberal HS

Notes: Three-time all-state selection in football and two-time all-state performer in track and field...Three-time all-conference selection in football, baseball, and track and field...Recorded 3,639 career rushing yards and 5,454 yards from scrimmage...Had 70 career passing touchdowns and 40 career rushing touchdowns.

Josiah Emmitt, DL, 6-2, 245, Amarillo, Texas / Tascosa HS

Notes: All-district second team selection as a defensive lineman in Texas Class 6A...Helped his team to a 21-8 record over two years and record seven playoff victories...Team reached the state semifinals in 2018 and quarterfinals in 2019...Academic All-State selection...Named an AP Scholar and earned Superintendent Scholar honors three times...

Ethan Forrester, QB, 6-3, 210, Land O'Lakes, Fla. / Land O'Lakes HS

Notes: All-conference first team selection as a senior and second team as a junior...Three-year team captain and starter at quarterback, while earning team MVP honors as a senior...Named to Tampa Bay Home Team 100...Pasco East-West All-Star Game participant at quarterback...In his prep career, threw for 3,393 yards and 27 touchdowns, while rushing for 887 yards and 13 touchdowns.

Beau Foster, DB, 6-0, 190, Dodge City, Kan. / Dodge City HS

Notes: Kansas Class 6A All-State First Team selection at defensive back by KPreps and Topeka Capital Journal...Named the 2019 WAC Offensive Player of the Year...Selected to the 2020 Kansas Shrine Bowl...Recorded 2,134 rushing and 3,536 passing yards in his prep career with 26 rushing and 32 passing touchdowns, while tallying 79 tackles and 2 interceptions.

Colt Fuller, TE, 6-3, 205, Arlington, Texas / Lamar HS

John Johnson, DB/LB, 6-3, 200, Dodge City, Kan. / Dodge City HS

Notes: KFBCA All-State First Team selection as a defensive back...Two-time all-conference selection...All-conference selection in basketball...Recorded 882 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns on 70 receptions, while recording 145 tackles and 4 interceptions throughout his prep career.

Matthew Macy, WR, 6-1, 165, Andover, Kan. / Andover Central HS

Notes: All-state selection in Kansas Class 4A by Sports in Kansas, Wichita Eagle, and Topeka Capital Journal...All-conference selection at wide receiver...Recorded 71 receptions for 1,580 receiving yards with 22 touchdowns in his prep career, averaging 22.3 yards per catch...Had 37 receptions for 863 yards and 10 touchdowns as a senior.

Kade Melvin, DB, 5-11, 180, Norton, Kan. / Norton Community HS

Notes: All-state selection at quarterback by the Wichita Eagle and Topeka Capital Journal…Three-time all-league selection…Selected to the 2020 Kansas Shrine Bowl…As a senior threw for over 1,800 yards.

Dalton Miller, DB, 5-11, 185, Great Bend, Kan. / Great Bend HS

Notes: Three-time all-state selection, including first team honors in 2019 as a senior...Three-time all-conference selection, while earning Conference Defensive Player of the Year honors as a junior in 2018...Recorded 430 career tackles with 12 interceptions, while producing 2,338 rushing yards and 529 receiving yards on offense...Had 4,680 career all-purpose yards with 46 total touchdowns.

Trevion Mitchell, DB, 5-10, 170, Wichita, Kan. / Maize South HS

Notes: Two-time all-state and three-time all-league selection...Named the AVCTL Co-Most Valuable Player...All-Metro selection...Kansas Class 5A Defensive Player of the Year finalist...No. 1 ranked defensive back by Catch It Kansas...Selected to the 2020 Kansas Shrine Bowl...As a senior, recorded 56 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 2 touchdowns.

Alex Norrish, OL, 6-8, 280, Tempe, Ariz. / Marcos de Niza HS

Notes: Played on both the offensive and defensive line...Named to the 4A Desert Sky All-Region Second Team as an offensive lineman.

Mason Perez, DB, 6-1, 175, Larned, Kan. / Larned HS

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580934462752.jpeg" alt="Courtesy FHSU Sports Information" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy FHSU Sports Information</figcaption>
 </figure>

Wednesday, February 5, 2020 is National Signing Day as Fort Hays State head football coach&nbsp;<a href="http://fhsuathletics.com/coaches.aspx?rc=432">Chris Brown</a>&nbsp;and the Tiger football coaching staff announce signings for the 2020 season. The next Tiger Football recruiting class will be sending in their National Letters of Intent (NLI) throughout the day.Keep an eye on this page throughout Wednesday for updates on the latest signees. Student-athletes will be added to the list below once their NLI's have been received.Also, follow&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/fhsufootball">@FHSUFootball</a>&nbsp;Twitter as we introduce and welcome each signee to the Tiger Football family.<h2>

Sam Brandt, DB, 5-10, 185, Piedmont, Okla. / Bethany HS</h2>Notes: Two-time all-state selection at defensive back by&nbsp;The Oklahoman...Two-time all-state selection at both quarterback and defensive back by&nbsp;Tulsa World...2019 all-state by the Oklahoma Coaches Association...2019 Little All-City Defensive Player of the Year by&nbsp;The Oklahoman...2019 District 4A-2 Player of the Year...As a senior produced 83 tackles and 3 interceptions on defense, while throwing for 2,486 yards and 25 touchdowns and rushing for 1,098 yards with 12 touchdowns as a quarterback.<h2>Hayden Brown, RB, 5-11, 185, Hays, Kan. / Hays HS</h2>Notes: Two-time all-state selection by both the&nbsp;Topeka Capital Journal&nbsp;and&nbsp;Wichita Eagle...KFBCA Class 5A All-State selection...Selected to the 2020 Kansas Shrine Bowl...Ranks third in Hays High School history for total points, rushing yards and attempts, and receptions...Produced over 2,000 career rushing yards and over 1,000 career receiving yards with 32 touchdowns and 3 kickoff return touchdowns.<h2>Max Bullinger, TE, 6-2, 200, Colwich, Kan. / Bishop Carroll HS</h2>Notes: All-City First Team selection at tight end as a senior...All-state honorable mention selection in 2019.<h2>Aaron Corbin, OL, 6-2, 290, Edmond, Okla. / Deer Creek HS</h2>Notes: As a senior, named All-District Offensive Lineman of the Year...Named to All-Conference, All-Big City, and All-State teams on the offensive line...Deer Creek Offensive Player of the Year...Four-year starter...Team captain...Helped Deer Creek to 231.6 rushing yards per game in 2019.<h2>Austin Dale, LB, 6-1, 215, Hugoton, Kan. / Hugoton HS</h2>Notes: All-state honorable mention selection at linebacker...Recorded 127 tackles as a senior...All-league selection at both linebacker and running back...Named to the KMEA All-State Band three years for tenor saxophone...National John Phillip Sousa Honor Band Participant.<h2>Jack Dawson, QB, 5-11, 185, Arlington, Texas / Lamar HS</h2>Notes: As a senior, earned all-district first team honors...As a junior, named District 4-6A Offensive Player of the Year...As a sophomore, named the District 4-6A Offensive Sophomore of the Year...Named his team's Offensive Player of the Year three times...Three-time Academic All-District selection...Recorded 7,629 passing yards on 491 completions with 90 passing touchdowns and 107 total touchdowns throughout his prep career...Owns the Arlington city records for career passing yards, completions, passing touchdowns, and total touchdowns.<h2>Syris Dunlap, WR, 5-8, 170, Liberal, Kan. / Liberal HS</h2>Notes: Three-time all-state selection in football and two-time all-state performer in track and field...Three-time all-conference selection in football, baseball, and track and field...Recorded 3,639 career rushing yards and 5,454 yards from scrimmage...Had 70 career passing touchdowns and 40 career rushing touchdowns.<h2>Josiah Emmitt, DL, 6-2, 245, Amarillo, Texas / Tascosa HS</h2>Notes: All-district second team selection as a defensive lineman in Texas Class 6A...Helped his team to a 21-8 record over two years and record seven playoff victories...Team reached the state semifinals in 2018 and quarterfinals in 2019...Academic All-State selection...Named an AP Scholar and earned Superintendent Scholar honors three times...<h2>Ethan Forrester, QB, 6-3, 210, Land O'Lakes, Fla. / Land O'Lakes HS</h2>Notes: All-conference first team selection as a senior and second team as a junior...Three-year team captain and starter at quarterback, while earning team MVP honors as a senior...Named to Tampa Bay Home Team 100...Pasco East-West All-Star Game participant at quarterback...In his prep career, threw for 3,393 yards and 27 touchdowns, while rushing for 887 yards and 13 touchdowns.<h2>Beau Foster, DB, 6-0, 190, Dodge City, Kan. / Dodge City HS</h2>Notes: Kansas Class 6A All-State First Team selection at defensive back by KPreps and Topeka Capital Journal...Named the 2019 WAC Offensive Player of the Year...Selected to the 2020 Kansas Shrine Bowl...Recorded 2,134 rushing and 3,536 passing yards in his prep career with 26 rushing and 32 passing touchdowns, while tallying 79 tackles and 2 interceptions.<h2>Colt Fuller, TE, 6-3, 205, Arlington, Texas / Lamar HS</h2><h2>John Johnson, DB/LB, 6-3, 200, Dodge City, Kan. / Dodge City HS</h2>Notes: KFBCA All-State First Team selection as a defensive back...Two-time all-conference selection...All-conference selection in basketball...Recorded 882 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns on 70 receptions, while recording 145 tackles and 4 interceptions throughout his prep career.<h2>Matthew Macy, WR, 6-1, 165, Andover, Kan. / Andover Central HS</h2>Notes: All-state selection in Kansas Class 4A by Sports in Kansas, Wichita Eagle, and Topeka Capital Journal...All-conference selection at wide receiver...Recorded 71 receptions for 1,580 receiving yards with 22 touchdowns in his prep career, averaging 22.3 yards per catch...Had 37 receptions for 863 yards and 10 touchdowns as a senior.<h2>Kade Melvin, DB, 5-11, 180, Norton, Kan. / Norton Community HS</h2>Notes: All-state selection at quarterback by the Wichita Eagle and Topeka Capital Journal…Three-time all-league selection…Selected to the 2020 Kansas Shrine Bowl…As a senior threw for over 1,800 yards.<h2>Dalton Miller, DB, 5-11, 185, Great Bend, Kan. / Great Bend HS</h2>Notes: Three-time all-state selection, including first team honors in 2019 as a senior...Three-time all-conference selection, while earning Conference Defensive Player of the Year honors as a junior in 2018...Recorded 430 career tackles with 12 interceptions, while producing 2,338 rushing yards and 529 receiving yards on offense...Had 4,680 career all-purpose yards with 46 total touchdowns.<h2>Trevion Mitchell, DB, 5-10, 170, Wichita, Kan. / Maize South HS</h2>Notes: Two-time all-state and three-time all-league selection...Named the AVCTL Co-Most Valuable Player...All-Metro selection...Kansas Class 5A Defensive Player of the Year finalist...No. 1 ranked defensive back by Catch It Kansas...Selected to the 2020 Kansas Shrine Bowl...As a senior, recorded 56 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 2 touchdowns.<h2>Alex Norrish, OL, 6-8, 280, Tempe, Ariz. / Marcos de Niza HS</h2>Notes: Played on both the offensive and defensive line...Named to the 4A Desert Sky All-Region Second Team as an offensive lineman.<h2>Mason Perez, DB, 6-1, 175, Larned, Kan. / Larned HS</h2>Notes: Kansas Class 3A All-State Honorable Mention selection at defensive back...Twice named to the Sports in Kansas All-Non Senior Team...Received all-conference honors as a running back, defensive back, kick returner, and linebacker throughout his prep career...As a senior, produced 691 rushing yards, 171 receiving yards, and 48 tackles.<h2>Gage Prester, DB, 5-10, 170, Salina, Kan. / Salina Central HS</h2>Notes: All-state honorable mention selection at defensive back as a senior...Named all-league first team at defensive back and on special teams in 2019...Two-time all-league selection...Named to 2019 All-Saline County Team...2019 Team Captain.<h2>Kobe Rome, DB, 6-0, 160, Chandler, Ariz. / Perry HS</h2>Notes: All-region honorable mention selection as a defensive back in 2019...Named his high school's multi-sport athlete of the year during his junior year...All-region performer in the triple jump in track and field...Recorded 39 tackles and 2 interception returns for touchdowns in 2019.<h2>Reece Struckhoff, DB, 5-10, 190, Kensington, Kan. / Thunder Ridge HS</h2>Notes: Kansas 8-Man Division II Defensive Player of the Year...8-Man Division II Player of the Year finalist on offense...Named to Hays Daily News Top 11 players...All-district selection as both a running back and returner...Set the state single-season touchdown record...Named All-State First Team by both the&nbsp;Wichita Eagle&nbsp;and&nbsp;Topeka Capital Journal...Chosen to play in the Kansas 8-Man All-Star Game...As a senior, produced 2,167 rushing yards, 166 tackles, 53 touchdowns, 2 forced fumbles, and 1 interception.<h2>Alex Schremmer, WR, 5-10, 160, Great Bend, Kan. / Great Bend HS</h2>Notes: Kansas Class 5A All-State First Team selection in both 2018 and 2019...All-conference first team selection in 2018 and 2019...All-state and all-conference selection in both basketball and baseball...Record holder at Great Bend High School for yards per game, yards in a season, receptions in a season, and touchdowns in a season...Recorded 2,048 receiving yards on 138 catches with 21 touchdowns...As a senior had 78 receptions, 1,178 receiving yards, and 15 touchdowns.<h2>Shane Watts, DB, 5-9, 185, De Soto, Kan. / De Soto HS</h2>Notes: All-state honorable mention at defensive back by Sports in Kansas...Two-time all-conference selection at defensive back...Top 25 defensive backs to watch by Faces in Kansas...Helped team to conference championship and 10-1 record as a senior.<h2>Judson Wiltfong, DL, 6-5, 225, Edmond, Kan. / Norton Community HS</h2>Notes: Named the Sports in Kansas Defensive Player of the Year in 2019...Kansas Class 2A All-State First Team selection as a defensive lineman by the Wichita Eagle and KFBCA...Kansas All-Class Second Team selection on defense...All-State Second Team selection by MaxPreps...Hays Daily News All-Area Super 11 selection as an offensive and defensive lineman...As a senior, recorded 156 tackles, 26 tackles for loss, 10 sacks, 31 quarterback hurries, 5 pass breakups, and 2 fumble recoveries.<h2>Dylan Zamorano, DB, 6-0, 170, Tucson, Ariz. / Canyon del Oro HS</h2>Notes: All-region first team selection in Class 4A at wide receiver, while recording 100 tackles on defense...Member of National Honor Society.Transfers/Prep School<h2>Keylan Chapman, RB, Jr., 5-11, 205, DeSoto, Texas / Southwestern (Calif.) College</h2>Notes: As a sophomore in 2019 at Southwestern (Calif.) College, rushed for 557 yards on 142 carries with three touchdowns, along with 67 receiving yards…As a freshman in 2018 at Vermillion (Minn.) Community College, rushed for 146 yards with two touchdowns and had 72 receiving yards...Redshirted his true freshman year at the University of Oregon.<h2>Andre Dos Santos Aires, K, So., 6-4, 215, Fortaleza, Brazil / Garden City (Kan.) CC</h2>Notes: NJCAA All-America Honorable Mention selection at kicker as a freshman in 2019...All-KJCCC First Team selection in 2019…Converted 11-of-14 field goal attempts with a season long of 43 yards, and went a perfect 53-of-53 on PAT attempts…In 2018, was a member of the men's soccer team at Hawkeye Community College in Iowa.<h2>Toronto King, RB, 5-9, 185, Hemingway, S.C. / Palmetto Prep Academy</h2>Notes: At Palmetto Prep Academy in 2019, rushed for 1,125 yards and 19 touchdowns...As a senior in 2018 at Carvers Bay High School, rushed for 1,333 yards and 23 touchdowns, earning Class 2A all-state honors.<h2>Gage McCook, WR, 5-9, 190, Argyle, Texas / Cisco (Texas) College</h2>Notes: As a sophomore in 2019, led Cisco College in receptions with 38, good for 323 yards and one touchdown…As a freshman in 2018, had 18 receptions for 231 yards, while adding 308 return yards on kickoffs and punts.<h2>Tim Schoepflin, DB, 5-7, 165, Lawrence, Kan. / William Jewell College</h2>Notes: Redshirted the 2019 season at William Jewell…Played his prep career at Lawrence Free State High School.<h2>Tristan Tucker, RB, 5-9, 195, Orlando, Fla. / Harding University</h2>Notes: Produced 1,580 rushing yards on just 181 carries over three seasons at Harding, averaging 8.8 yards per carry…Accumulated 18 rushing touchdowns and 121 receiving yards over three seasons...Second-leading rusher on the team in both 2018 and 2019, rushing for 719 yards as a sophomore and 666 yards as a junior…All-GAC Second Team selection in 2018…Helped Harding to NCAA Playoff appearances three straight years from 2017 to 2019.

FHSU Sports Information